K-pop Industry Leaders Demand Contract Protection Law as NewJeans-Hybe Dispute Intensifies

K-pop Industry Leaders Demand Contract Protection Law as NewJeans-Hybe Dispute Intensifies

By Marcus Stevenson

February 20, 2025 at 11:49 PM

Korean music industry organizations are calling for new anti-tampering legislation amid the ongoing contract dispute between NewJeans (now NJZ) and Hybe's Ador. Five major organizations, including the Korea Management Federation and Recording Industry Association of Korea, have united in this push to protect exclusive contracts in K-pop.

K-pop group NewJeans in promotional photo

K-pop group NewJeans in promotional photo

The controversy emerged when NewJeans attempted to terminate their contract with Ador and rebranded as NJZ. The group has since launched new initiatives, including a Calvin Klein partnership and planned performances, despite Ador and Hybe maintaining the original contract's validity.

Industry organizations argue that unilateral contract terminations threaten K-pop's foundation, which relies on long-term artist development processes. They're urging stakeholders to resolve disputes privately rather than through public channels and media manipulation.

Key developments in the dispute include:

  • A court hearing scheduled for March 7th
  • NJZ members' parents managing PR through Instagram
  • Accusations against Hybe's Bang Si-Hyuk regarding show cancellation attempts
  • Ador's insistence on using the group's "official" name, NewJeans

The case highlights growing tensions between artist autonomy and agency control in K-pop, with the proposed legislation potentially reshaping how contracts are protected in South Korea's music industry. The outcome could set important precedents for future artist-agency relationships.

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Alabama June Jam festival logo

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Benson Boone holding trophy award

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